Two days passed in the warmth of the mountain. They trained, they explored, they rested. But the search was never far from their minds. Gracier. Luna. Maria. The others. Somewhere out there, in the vast expanse of the lower world, they waited.
On the third morning, they packed the tent and began their journey.
The road wound through rolling hills and ancient forests, past small villages and bustling towns. They traveled at an easy pace, their steps unhurried, their hearts open. Artemia walked between Alex and Saeko, her blue hair bright against the green of the trees. Saeko walked on his left, her hand occasionally brushing his. Alex walked in the center, his eyes scanning the horizon, always searching.
They reached their first city by evening.
°°°
City of Veridia
